In an unusual act of kindness, this dragonfly perched on the barbed wire fence out back and waited patiently for me to put my macro lens on my camera and to take a couple dozen shots in close proximity. The one and only time I was given such a generous opportunity.

I’ve yet to have another sighting and picture-taking opportunity of this species, although it’s a common southern dragonfly. This one is a male — the females have an orange-brown abdomen.

Roseate Skimmer rear view. 13 Jul 2012. Click to enlarge.

This view affords a sharper focus on the abdomen and wing tips.

A Few Details About This Species:

Range – Widespread in North America in the U.S., also Central and South America

Habitat – It tolerates a wide range of habitats but usually requires open water, which can include artificial water bodies such as tanks and ditches.

Diet – It forages the tops of tall vegetation and feeds on insects not much smaller than itself.

Other – The male has a rose pink and red abdomen, while the female as an orange-brown one. It breeds in mud.